Import & Export Regulations
Nigeria has specific regulations in place to govern import and export processes. These regulations cover various aspects, including customs procedures, documentation requirements, trade restrictions, licensing, and compliance measures. The purpose of these measures is to facilitate the smooth and orderly flow of goods across borders while protecting national interests, promoting economic growth, and ensuring compliance with international trade standards and agreements.
- Import Processes and Regulations
- Export Processes and Regulations
Import regulations in Nigeria are subject to change and are governed by various government agencies and laws. Some key import regulations in Nigeria include:
- Import Documentation: Importers are required to provide specific documentation for customs clearance, including a Bill of Lading/Airway Bill, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and a valid Import license or Certificate.
- Import Duty and Taxes: Importers are responsible for paying applicable import duties, Value added Tax (VAT), and other taxes on imported goods. The rates vary based on the type of goods and their classification under the Nigerian Customs Harmonised System (HS) Code
- Import Prohibition and Restrictions: Certain goods are prohibited from being imported into Nigeria, such as firearms, counterfeit goods, certain pharmaceutical products, and hazardous waste. Additionally, specific goods may be subject to import restrictions, requiring special permits, licenses or approvals from regulatory bodies. The import prohibition list can be accessed on the customs portal.
- Standards and Conformity Assessment: Imported goods must comply with Nigerian standards and undergo conformity assessment procedures to ensure they meet safety, quality, and health requirements. Regulations in this regard are enforced by standards organisations like the Standards Orgizations of Nigeria
- Pre-shipment Inspection: Some goods imported into Nigeria may require pre-shipment inspection by approved inspection agencies. The inspection verifies the quantity, quality, and conformity of the goods before shipment
- Import Procedural Guidelines: Importers must adhere to procedural guidelines, including completing customs declarations, providing accurate information, and following proper customs clearance procedures. These Import guidelines can be accessed on the customs portal.
- Trade Restrictions and Bans: Nigeria may impose temporary trade restrictions or bans on certain goods due to economic, health, or security concerns. Importers should stay informed about any relevant trade restrictions or bans to avoid potential issues.
Importers need to consult with relevant government agencies, such as the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Nigerian Agriculture Quarantine Service (NAQS), for detailed information on import regulations in Nigeria.
Export regulations in Nigeria are subject to change and are governed by various government agencies and laws. Some Key export regulations in Nigeria include:
- Export Documentation: Exporters are required to provide specific documentation for customs clearance, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and a valid Export License or Certificate
- Export Prohibition and Restrictions: Certain goods are prohibited from being exported from Nigeria such as crude oil, rough diamonds, endangered species, and cultural artifacts. Additionally, specific goods may be subject to export restrictions, requiring special permits, licences, or approvals from regulatory bodies. The export prohibition list can be accessed on the Nigerian Customs Service portal
- Export Duty and Taxes: Exporters may be subject to export duties, levies, or taxes on certain goods. The rates vary depending on the type of goods and their classification under the Nigerian Customs Harmonised System (HS) Code
- Standards and Conformity Assessment: Exported goods must comply with Nigerian standards and may need to undergo conformity assessment procedures to ensure they meet safety, quality, and health requirements. Standdards organisations like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) may enforce these regulations.
- Export Incentives and Promotion: The Nigerian government through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) provides various export incentives and support programs to encourage and promote non-oil exports. These include tax incentives, export grants, trade missions and access to export financing schemes.
- Export Procedural Guidelines: Exporters must adhere to specific procedural guidelines, including completing customs declarations, providing accurate information, and following proper customs clearance procedures. These export guidelines can be accessed on the customs portal.
- Trade Embargoes and Sanctions: Nigeria may impose temporary trade embargoes or be subject subject to international trade sanctions affecting certain goods or destinations. Exporters should stay informed about any relevant trade embargoes or sanctions to avoid potential issues.